17: Opinion (National)

The legal drinking age in the United States has been debated for many years. In 1984, the drinking age was raised to 21 to reduce drunk driving and save lives. However, some people think the drinking age should be lowered to 18. 

In the U.S., people are considered adults when they turn 18. They can vote, join the military, get married, and make important decisions about their lives. However, they are not allowed to buy or drink alcohol. This seems unfair to many. If 18-year-olds are trusted with big responsibilities, they should also be trusted to drink responsibly. Lowering the drinking age to 18 would make the law more consistent with other adult rights.

When the drinking age is 21, some young people under that age drink in secret. This can lead to dangerous situations, like drinking too much or driving drunk. If the drinking age were 18, young people could drink in public places like restaurants or bars where drinking is supervised. These safer environments can help reduce the risks of binge drinking and other harmful behaviors.

Lowering the drinking age could also help the economy. More people would be allowed to buy alcohol, which would increase sales and tax revenue. This extra money could support local businesses and governments. Young adults might also spend more on things like entertainment and dining out, boosting the economy further.

In some countries, like Germany and Italy, the drinking age is lower, and drinking is seen as a normal part of life. These countries often have fewer alcohol-related problems because people are taught to drink responsibly at a younger age.

Lowering the drinking age to 18 is a complicated issue. It involves thinking about personal freedoms, public safety, and the economy. While there are real concerns, the potential benefits are worth considering. By teaching responsible drinking habits and enforcing strong laws, the U.S. could safely lower the drinking age and create a system that treats young adults more fairly.